The history of one of the most common of modern-day diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, is reviewed. The disease probably existed prior to 1800 when it was first clearly described, but appears to have become much more common after this time. During the past two decades both the incidence and severity may have been declining. Vasculitis appears today certainly to be less common. The reason for this decline is considered in comparison with the decline in other infectious and non-infectious diseases. A hypothesis is put forward to explain the decline in terms of the botanical concept of ecological succession

ISSN 0823-2105

© 2012 Canadian Society for the History of Medicine/
    Société canadienne d'histoire de la médecine